As Starmer eyes the exit, here’s a vital lesson for Andy Burnham: first impressions are everything | Polly Toynbee

Anna Wright

3 weeks ago7 min read

In a political landscape often described by its progressive factions as a litany of dashed hopes and recurring disappointments, a rare moment of unqualified triumph emerged last week. Andy Burnham’s comprehensive victory in the Makerfield by-election, exceeding even the most optimistic projections, offered a much-needed shot of optimism. It was a victory that not only solidified his local mandate but also dramatically reshaped the narrative around his potential national leadership ambitions, casting a long shadow over the current Labour leadership as speculation mounts about future transitions. For Burnham, this moment of sunshine could prove pivotal, but only if he heeds the critical lesson of political longevity: first impressions, forged by immediate and memorable policy action, are everything.Burnham’s win in Makerfield was a resounding blow against the populist right, specifically against the well-funded machinery of Nigel Farage’s Reform Party. Despite Reform UK reportedly pouring considerable resources—an estimated £5 million—into the constituency, their efforts were decisively rebuffed. The defeat of a party whose candidates are often characterised as embodying the more unsavoury fringes of right-wing politics, echoing the “loathsome Reformers” and “nativists and hate-stirrers” from historical figures like Enoch Powell to the BNP, was a significant symbolic victory. This result underscored a persistent societal rejection of hard-right, nativist rhetoric in certain electoral contests, reminding observers that while such politics may erupt periodically, it can, and must, be repeatedly defeated.The context of this by-election triumph for Burnham is crucial. Already a prominent figure and Mayor of Greater Manchester, his name has long been circulated as a potential successor to Keir Starmer, particularly if Labour’s national electoral performance falters. The article's reference to “Starmer eyes the exit” and the cautionary tale of avoiding a “predecessor’s fate” implicitly highlights the precariousness of political leadership and the high stakes involved for any aspiring leader. Burnham’s task now is to leverage this moment of popular affirmation into a clear, compelling national vision, ensuring his initial foray into the heightened glare of prime ministerial speculation is defined by substance, not just local success.To truly cement a lasting impression and build a viable path to Downing Street, Burnham must quickly articulate and champion “immediate and memorable cost of living policies.” The current economic climate, marked by persistent inflation and stagnant wages, means that public attention is acutely focused on tangible solutions to everyday financial struggles. Simply put, voters are looking for leaders who can offer concrete proposals that directly alleviate their financial burdens. A failure to present such policies with clarity and conviction at this critical juncture could dilute the momentum from Makerfield and lead to the very fate of disillusionment and unmet expectations that has plagued previous Labour leaders struggling to connect with the electorate.The challenge for Burnham extends beyond mere policy proposals; it’s about establishing an authentic and decisive leadership persona. As the political narrative shifts towards potential future leadership contests, his ability to differentiate himself through bold, people-focused initiatives will be paramount. The progressive side of British politics, often criticised for its internal divisions and perceived lack of a coherent alternative, needs a unifying figure. Burnham's Makerfield victory has presented him with an extraordinary opportunity to step into that role, but the window for defining that first impression is narrow. His subsequent actions and policy announcements will either solidify his position as a credible future Prime Minister or relegate this significant by-election win to just another fleeting moment of hope in a long history of political ebbs and flows.The path ahead for Andy Burnham is fraught with both immense potential and considerable peril. The Makerfield by-election was a clarion call of support, a potent signal that his brand of politics resonates with a significant segment of the electorate. However, the lessons of history are clear: sustained political success hinges not just on initial victories, but on the enduring impact of a leader’s vision and their ability to translate that into effective, reassuring policies. For Burnham, the next steps will be critical in determining whether he can indeed ascend to the nation’s highest office, proving that a strong first impression can pave the way for a lasting legacy in British politics.

#lead focus

#UK Politics

#Labour Party

#By-election

#Andy Burnham

#Keir Starmer

#Reform UK

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